EDUCATION Minister Tim Gopeesingh is urging the nation’s teachers to continue to give their invaluable assets and qualities to the children who fall under their charge, despite the many challenges they face in schools.

The minister while addressing a function for Secondary Entrance Assessment teachers and principals at Hyatt Regency, Port-of-Spain, on Saturday last, said, “now, more than ever, in this current societal reality of youth criminality and violence, of single parent homes and parent absenteeism, I say to you that our children and our country need you the teachers more than ever.” Gopeesingh said when the joy of children is seen, and the pride and elation of their parents, it is often forgotten the very significant role of teachers in making those days for so many come true.

“This is why I have decided to hold this function for the first time ever in my tenure as Minister of Education this year.

So that you the teachers know that we truly appreciate your efforts and we are deeply indebted to you, the unsung heroes of our country, the patriots who dedicated their lives to unwavering service and guidance to our students and thus, to our national development,” he said.

He said the dream of a national and individual betterment, begins with the teacher, that person who believes in the student.

“The person who tugs and pushes and leads a person to the next plateau, sometimes giving that person a sharp dose of truth to ensure that you fulfil your true potential as a human being,” he said. Gopeesingh told the large gathering that it was their commitment that inspired him to work hard to implement progressive changes in the education system in the last four years. He said significant support was being provided for teachers to do their absolute best in the performance of their duties.

He added that the ministry was moving towards establishing an appropriate recognition and reward system for the nation’s teachers, apart from promotional opportunities.

“Teacher quality is one of the most important requirements of an improved, efficient and effective education system and I call on all teachers to join with my Ministry to continue to work together for our nation’s children and its ultimate progress,” he said.